The most frequent cause of acute onset scrotal pain men is a condition known as epididymitis. It is an inflammation of the coiled tube – the epididymis -- at the back of the testicle that stores and carries sperm. Men can contract the disease at any age.

Symptoms of epididymitis include:

·         Painful urination or an urgent or frequent need to urinate

·         A swollen, red or warm scrotum

·         A lump on the testicle

·         Testicle pain and tenderness, usually on one side

·         Painful intercourse or ejaculation

·         Discharge from the penis

·         Blood in the semen

·         Enlarged lymph nodes in the groin

·         Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvic area

Epididymitis is usually caused by a bacterial infection, including sexually transmitted infections, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia.

Anytime you experience scrotal pain or swelling, pain while you urinate, or have a discharge from your penis, you should see your doctor. If the pain is severe, get to the emergency room as soon as possible.

When you visit your doctor, he will likely check for enlarged lymph nodes in your groin and an enlarged testicle on the affected side. He will also take samples of your blood, urine, and penile discharge for analysis, which will include testing for a sexually transmitted infection.

Your doctor may also give you an ultrasound test to rule out if the blood flow to the testicles is lower than normal (a condition known as testicular torsion) or higher than normal, which would be a sign of epididymitis.

Should you be diagnosed with epididymitis, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics. If you caught the infection as a result of a sexual encounter, your partner will have to be treated as well. Be advised that .The symptoms may linger for several weeks even after the antibiotics have run their course.